HT and 2-channel music setup - New Ideas?


I have a Thiel CS2.4 as main front speakers, CS1.6 rear surround speakers, MCS1 as center and SS1 as subwoofer. Thinking of using Pass Labs X5 as amplifier. I have the following options for pre amp:
Bryston SP1.7
Simaudio Stargate
EAD Threatermaster 8800pro
I am into serious HT and 2-channel music. Any experience with the above?
Regards
Ken
drken80da17
I prefer the EAD Theatermaster pro over the Bryston. I've done a/b comparisons. There was a pretty nasty thread comparing the two a while back. I'd recommend you get a listen to both. Haven't heard the Simaudio so I can't say anything about it.

harry
Harry, thanks for your comment.
Do you think the Pass labs , EAD 8800pro and Thiel speakers will be a good choice? What's about McIntosh C45 and MC252?
Ken
Can I please urge you to check out the Theta Dreadnaught Amp?

I Have Thiel 2.3 and an MCS1 center as well and I just purchased the Theta (here on Agon!) and it is really, really NICE!). Not to mention it is the most beautiful amp I've ever seen (I know its not important....but it is!).

I started looking at Theta because I noticed so many others doing the same and saying that they worked well together. Then I found out that Theta uses Thiel in their demo systems...The rest is history! In fact I was so impressed with Theta, that I also purchased a Casablanca and a Miles CD player (yes I bought those on this site as well!)